The night IMPACT 100 chose its first grant recipient, then-president Michelle Anchors knew it would be able to enlist more members and funding the following year.
After members voted for the nonprofit to receive $128,000, a note was passed to Anchors.
Several women wanted to rally the rest of the group to donate more and give it to one of the losing nonprofits.
“I knew then there was inspiration among these women,” Anchors said.
IMPACT 100 surpassed its goal of recruiting 200 members this year. Through their 220 members, a $110,000 grant will be given to two nonprofits serving Okaloosa and Walton counties.
“You don’t set goals because they’re easy,” Anchors said. “You set them high. Within reach, but not without work from our members.”
Current president Sandy Sims attributed the organization’s success in its first year to its simplicity. Members decide the extent of their involvement — from simply sending a $1,000 check to joining a committee — knowing any contribution will be put to good use.
“The women in this community come through,” Sims said.
Sims said she has trouble telling nonprofits what IMPACT 100 is looking for because a new year is a clean slate. Women from all walks of life are joining the organization.
“There’s no predetermined outcome,” she said.
The biggest challenge this year was getting the word out, Sims said. IMPACT 100 is looking into the best method to communicate to current and potential members.
“Right now we are so grass roots,” she said.
As the organization continues to help the community with its grants, Sims has no doubt it will continue to grow.
“The uniqueness of this organization is going to take us to $1 million in 10 years,” she said.
TO LEARN MORE: Visit IMPACT 100 Northwest Florida’s website at www.impactnwf.org.